Muhammad Ali: 10 Most Inspiring Quotes

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Two months before the beginning of the Rio Olympic Games, the world was saddened by the death of one the most celebrated athletes of all time. Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Clay in Louisville, Kentucky, on January 17, 1942, passed away on June 5th after battling Parkinson’s disease for more than three decades.

The heavyweight boxing champion was one of the most beloved public figures of the 20th century. Ali left his mark way beyond the world of sports; he was a fierce fighter for the civil rights movement and an unwavering pacifist. Not only did he have an imposing physical presence (at six foot three), his personality was equally impressive. He expressed himself clearly outside the ring on topics including racism, the Vietnam War, and religion. Here is a collection of some of his most insightful quotes:

1. I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'

2. Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.

3. Boxing is a lot of white men watching two black men beat each other up.

4. The word 'Islam' means 'peace.' The word 'Muslim' means 'one who surrenders to God.' But the press makes us seem like haters.

5. Cassius Clay is a name that white people gave to my slave master. Now that I am free, that I don't belong anymore to anyone, that I'm not a slave anymore, I gave back their white name, and I chose a beautiful African one.

6. At home I am a nice guy: but I don’t want the world to know. Humble people, I’ve found, don’t get very far.